One Pot Chicken Orzo Pasta (Printable Version)
Tender chicken and orzo with savory aromatics, all made in one pot for an easy, comforting dinner.
# What You'll Need:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
700g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
02 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
03 -
1 teaspoon paprika
04 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 -
Salt, to taste
06 -
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
07 -
1 small onion, diced
08 -
3 garlic cloves, minced
09 -
1 cup orzo pasta
10 -
600 ml chicken broth
11 -
120 ml heavy cream (optional)
12 -
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
13 -
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
14 -
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
# Steps To Follow:
01 -
Pat chicken dry and season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
02 -
Lower the heat to medium. In the same pot, add diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 -
Stir in orzo pasta and toast for 1 minute, allowing it to absorb aromatic flavors and begin to brown.
04 -
Pour in chicken broth and, if desired, add heavy cream. Scrape any caramelized bits from the bottom of the pot. Add dried thyme or oregano. Stir thoroughly and bring to a gentle simmer.
05 -
Return seared chicken to the pot. Cover and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, or until orzo is tender and chicken is cooked through.
06 -
Remove the pot from heat. Add lemon juice if using. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes for enhanced flavor and texture. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving warm.
# Notes and Tips:
01 -
For added nutrition and color, stir in baby spinach or peas during the final minutes of cooking.
02 -
Orzo may be substituted with small pasta shapes such as ditalini or couscous for variation.
03 -
Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving for a richer flavor.